Valiant Superheroes Head to Big Screen

The Valiant library includes more than 2,000 characters such as X-O Manowar, Bloodshot, Harbinger, Shadowman, Archer & Armstrong and more.

The partnership will see the two companies develop and co-produce tentpole theatrical films for release simultaneously in the U.S. and China.

“Global markets, like China, offer the greatest opportunities for monetization from merchandising, licensing, as well as revenues from film and television properties," says Dan Mintz, chief executive officer, DMG. "Comic superheroes are the most lucrative and sought after IP for movie franchises, so taking a stake in the last independent comic universe is a strategic investment for DMG that will produce movies and TV that are both appealing and relevant to a global audience.”

Current Valiant feature films in development include the previously

Bloodshot

from Sony Pictures, in partnership with Original Film;

Shadowman,

in partnership with the Sean Daniel Company; and

Archer & Armstrong

, also with the Sean Daniel Company. Valiant has also begun development on several television projects.

Beyond TV and films, DMG and Valiant will work in concert to develop China-focused licensing partnerships for Valiant's stable of characters in categories such as publishing, animation, online gaming, toys, apparel, live events and theme parks.

As part of the deal, DMG has made an eight-figure (USD) equity investment in Valiant, which the comic book company will use to further its efforts in international publishing, film, television and licensing efforts. DMG has also dedicated additional capital toward the production of theatrical films and television programs based on Valiant's library of superhero characters.

"Valiant's iconic stable of intellectual property and world-class management team, coupled with DMG's unmatched skill with entertainment brand building in China make a formidable partnership," says Peter Cuneo, chairman, Valiant. "We will look forward to introducing some of the most popular superheroes of all time to the world's fastest-growing market across all media forms.”